New pilot scheme for engineers in Lancashire with BAE Systems

STEM Returners are delighted to announce a brand NEW programme in Lancashire to get former engineers back into the industry, with defence and security giants BAE Systems.

The scheme gives engineers the perfect opportunity to overcome what many call the “career break curse”.

This STEM Returners programme offers engineers a 12-week paid placement and for the first time will be run at BAE Systems’ air division in Warton, with a focus on electrical, design and aeronautical engineering, among other roles.

The previous programmes STEM Returners have run with BAE, 96% of participants were offered permenant positions within the company.

Natalie Desty, director of STEM Returners, said: “There are lots of initiatives to cater to the next generation of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) workers but the STEM Returners programme is aimed specifically at those wishing to go back to engineering mid-career.”

The programme also aims to reduce the gender gap in the sector, with only one in 10 engineering posts held by women.

Charlotte Minton, who took part in a pilot programme in BAE’s Maritime division, had all but given up on a career in engineering following the the birth of her children.

“To be honest I thought I’d have to retrain. I was quite daunted about handing over a CV that had a gap in it.” She said

By chance, Charlotte came across an advert for STEM Returners and applied for a placement with BAE Systems in Portsmouth.

“I pulled into the car park at my daughters’ school and because she was running late, I logged on to view the (school) newsletter.”

“At the back was an advert, I read and it and then re-read it, googled STEM Returners and then actually thought, I’ve got nothing to lose

After successfully completing the programme, Charlotte became a permanent Principal Configuration Engineer, working on a variety of projects including the type 26 frigate for the Royal Navy.

“I’m a firm believer in fate” she said.

“What’s brilliant about the STEM Returners programme is that it’s a two way street. If the role isn’t right for you then you can choose to walk away at the end of the programme and it’s the same for the employer.”

Almost half the returners across all STEM Returners’ programmes are women.

The Women in Engineering Society has estimated that up to 20,000 qualified female engineers could potentially fill job vacancies after career breaks.

Debbie Kempton, Principal Engineer and Head of Long-Term Talent for Air Sector Engineering said: “We’re very excited to extend the STEM Returners programme into the Air Sector.”

“This is a fantastic opportunity to bring in qualified people who not only have technical skills, but also have other life experiences. Diversity of thought and approach enables our engineers to create the cutting-edge solutions our customers require and we’re excited to bring STEM Returners on board to help us facilitate this.”

If you’re interested in joining the BAE Systems Air Division programme at Warton, you can apply here.